The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has explained why it did not field candidates in certain local government areas during the recent council elections. Tony Okocha said the party deliberately avoided competing with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in districts where it lacked the capacity to win. Speaking at a press briefing in Port Harcourt, Okocha described the decision as a matter of comparative advantage: the APC chose not to contest seats where the outcome was likely to be unfavorable. He pointed to Port Harcourt City as an example, noting that the PDP candidate had performed well as mayor and was expected to enjoy strong community support.
Okocha also addressed rumors that APC candidates in the local government elections were originally members of the PDP. He confirmed that some defectors had indeed joined the APC, emphasizing that the party deliberately targeted politicians with proven track records. According to Okocha, the PDP is in disarray, and the APC sees it as a privilege to “harvest” its members.
The strategy appears to have paid off, as the APC secured some victories in the elections. Okocha attributed this success to the party’s calculated approach, which involved discreetly recruiting new members and focusing on areas where it had a stronger chance of winning. Looking ahead, the APC aims to attract more high‑profile figures, including Federal Capital Territory Minister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike. Okocha stated that the party’s ultimate goal is to take full control of Rivers State and that it will continue reaching out to potential defectors. With the PDP reportedly in turmoil, the APC views the situation as an opportunity for significant gains, and its efforts to expand membership and influence will be closely watched in the coming months.
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